Old Plank Road Trail: Fond du Lac to County Hwy G

Over the course of 12.2 miles from Fond du Lac to County Highway G, this section of the Old Plank Road Trail journeys through a rolling, agricultural landscape. There are several formidable hills to ascend along the route, some which may be daunting for cyclists. Fortunately, relaxing and speedy descents are the reward after vigorous climbs. The rolling terrain means there are few flat segments along this part of the trail. For some bicyclists, the ride may prove strenuous, while others may enjoy the challenging workout.

The surface of the Old Plank Road Trail is in excellent condition. The paved asphalt path is smooth, with few bumps or cracks. The surface’s superb condition is due to its new construction. This section of the trail in Fond du Lac County was completed in 2019-2022 when Wisconsin State Highway 23 was rebuilt. The path runs alongside the 4-lane highway for its duration, so traffic noises are constant during a bike ride.

The charming landscape of rural Fond du Lac County compensates for the highway noise. The Old Plank Road Trail passes looming glacial features such as high moraines and drumlins, and also journeys though marshy low valleys with streams and rivers. Fields and wooded forests cover the landscape, offering a pleasant view. The path is not shaded, so trail-goers should plan accordingly.

Bicycle enthusiasts may want to explore Fond du Lac and neighboring communities before heading out on the Old Plank Road Trail. “Fond du Lac” translates to “bottom of the lake” in French. The name refers to the city’s location at the southern end of Lake Winnebago. For centuries, Native Americans lived in this area. With the advent of white American settlers, a military road was built through the area in the mid-1830s. This spurred growth of a town, and the city incorporated in 1852 after the railroad arrived.

Today Fond du Lac is a thriving community with many dining options for visiting trail-goers. Freshfit Cafe is located at the start of the Old Plank Road Trail and serves coffee drinks, salads, sandwiches, and smoothies. Gilles Frozen Custard is a traditional drive-in stand with carhop service, featuring frozen custard treats, burgers, and sides. Bryanna’s Bakery downtown is a hidden gem known for its delectable macarons, tortes, pastries, breads, and cakes. Schmitty’s Oar House Bar & Grill serves classic American and Italian cuisine.

Not far from Fond du Lac are two noteworthy attractions. Kelley’s Country Creamery practices sustainable agriculture on a 150-year-old family farm. Visitors may watch delicious ice cream being made through the store’s viewing windows as they enjoy a tasty treat. Not too far away, Ledgerock Distillery produces spirits start-to-finish. The owners grow their own grain and produce spirits on site. Free tastings are offered at their store.

Back in Fond du Lac at the Old Plank Road Trail, a parking lot by Festival Foods serves as an acceptable trailhead. The lot is located at the intersection of U.S. Highway 151 and Wisconsin State Highway 23 on the east side of Fond du Lac. To access the parking lot from U.S. Highway 151, exit at Wisconsin State Highway 23 and drive west through two roundabouts on the state highway for 0.2 mile. Turn right (north) into the driveway of the Festival Foods shopping center, and drive to the east side of the lot to park.

From the east side of the parking lot, a short path leads to the paved Prairie Trail. A bicycle self-service repair station is located there. To access the Old Plank Road Trail, turn right (south) on the Prairie Trail, and proceed a short distance to Wisconsin State Highway 23. At that intersection, the Prairie Trail continues south, but the Old Plank Road Trail turns left (east) to follow the 4-lane state highway.

The trail crosses two highway ramps and passes under U.S. Highway 151 before beginning a long 2 mile ascent up the Niagara Escarpment. This massive limestone ridge runs from Lake Winnebago, north through Door County, into upper Michigan and Ontario. It ends at Niagara Falls in New York. On the trail, over a 2 mile segment, the elevation at the ridge rises 400 feet. It is a lengthy, arduous climb for most bicyclists.

The trail passes over County Highway K about a half mile up the hill. It also travels by St. Mary’s Springs Academy, a Catholic school system with students from preschool through high school. The remaining 1.5 miles up the ledge is a vigorous scramble. At the top of the ridge, the trail meets County Highway UU.

On the east side of this county highway is a trailhead. It primarily serves as a park and ride, but an “Old Plank Road Trail” sign indicates the lot may be used as a trailhead. A park bench is the only amenity. Trail-goers who wish to avoid climbing the Niagara Escarpment hill may begin their journey from this trailhead. While there are other hills to climb along the route, none are as daunting as the Niagara Escarpment.

From the trailhead, the path follows County Highway UU south over Wisconsin State Highway 23 and then turns left (east). For the rest of the route, the Old Plank Road Trail travels along the south side of the state highway. It’s slightly over 5 miles between County Highways UU and W. As the path journeys by farmsteads and fields, the trail gradient rises and falls. The path intersects several country lanes, such as Tower Road and Seven Hills Road. These names hint at the type of terrain found along the trail.

Down the hill from Seven Hills Road, the Old Plank Road Trail crosses the Sheboygan River. The 81-mile river begins several miles south of the trail and makes its way to Lake Michigan in Sheboygan. Just a short distance from the river, the trail crosses County Highway W. Here, it passes St. Paul’s Lutheran Church and School. The historic, quaint brick church with its towering steeple adds to the countryside scenery.

From County Highway W, it is 4 miles to the trailhead at County Highway G. The path follows the rolling landscape alongside Wisconsin State Highway 23, ascending and descending. This part of the trail crosses Loehr, Pit, and Hillview Roads. After another climb, the path crosses County Highway G and arrives at the trailhead.

To reach the trailhead by car from Wisconsin State Highway 23, take the exit ramp to County Highway G and drive south to Division Road. Turn left (east), and proceed 200 feet to the entrance of the trailhead on the left (north) side of Division Road. No amenities are found there. It simply has a parking lot and “Old Plank Road Trail” sign.

^{Map of trailheads and addresses along this section of the trail.}

This section of the Old Plank Road Trail in Fond du Lac County offers trail-goers a beautiful view of the rolling countryside. Cyclists who follow the trail over the rolling landscape may expect frequent gear changes on their bikes. Nonetheless, a ride on this segment of the Old Plank Road Trail is invigorating and delightful.

Trail last ridden and documented in May, 2024.